June 4, 2019

【What is Flag Pole? 　How to switch to a Work Permit or PR Status at a Land Border】Updated May 30, 2024

What is Flag Pole?

This is an option for those already in Canada without having to officially enter the United States. It allows these people to switch to a Work Permit or a PR Status at a designated land port of entry at the border.

Some people come to Canada as a visitor first and switch to obtain a Working Holiday Work Permit through Flagpole later on. 

The following people are eligible to apply for Flagpole:

• Already a holder of a valid Work/ Study Permit 

•  Presently staying in Canada as a visitor

Many applicants choose to apply in-person at a land port of entry at the border as the application takes a much shorter time to complete than if it were to be done through a in-land Canadian Immigration Bureau.  

Another option is to include simultaneously a trip to the U.S and change your status on making your return to Canada. 

～How to change your immigration status to be a Worker using Flag Pole~

 

1. Once you’ve arrived at the border, state to the officer that you’re here to get a Work Permit and would like to do so using Flag Pole. 
   (Mention the purpose of your trip if you’re going to the U.S for leisure) 
2. Follow the officer’s instructions. Once you get to the U.S side, you might get a paper to declare that you did not enter the U.S.
   
   
3. Usually, you will not be required to exit your vehicle. However, in rare cases, you may be requested to go inside the building to have your fingerprint and photo taken.
   
   
4. Return to Canada and mention to the officer once more that you’re here to get your Work Permit. 
   
   
5. Follow instructions and in the Canadian office building, get your Work Permit. You may be asked a few questions (the questions will relate to a lot of what’s on your application, so don’t forget your application)
    
6. Pay the required fees.  Follow the officer’s instructions to get your fingerprint taken. 
   
   
7. Once you receive your Permit, please be sure to verify that there aren’t any discrepancies regarding your information.  Should there be any, request to have it corrected in person at the spot. This will save a lot of hassle than if you were to request to correct it later on. 
   
   
8. Mark down (on your calendar) the expiry date of your Permit. 

※Flagpoling services hours will be limited

As of May 30, 2024, flagpoling services will be available at the following ports of entry only at these specified times.

Therefore, long lineups are expected, and you may not get your turn in time. The Immigration Office strongly recommends using the IRCC’s online service.

Since the questions asked by Immigration Officers at the border and their level of leniency can vary, those who feel less comfortable are advised to apply through an in-land Immigration Office instead, even though this application process may take more time to complete.

 

Locations and times where flag poling is possible in BC.

Abbotsford-Huntingdon
Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm

Aldergrove
Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm

Boundary Bay
Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 2 pm

Douglas
Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm

Pacific Highway
Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 4 pm

 

Locations and times where flag poling is possible in Ontario.

Fort Erie (Peace Bridge)
Tuesday to Thursday, from 8 am to midnight

Niagara Falls Rainbow Bridge
Tuesday to Thursday, from 8 am to midnight

Queenston-Lewiston Bridge
Tuesday to Thursday, from 8 am to midnight

 

Resources on IRCC website:
 

Hours of service for all Ports of Entry 

Avoid the line at the border: Access immigration services online

How to check your application status

Please contact us at info@yupasscanada.com if you have any questions.